Delegate spotlight: Melefehi Fetuani

In Tāmaki Makaurau, Mele leads union members at her KFC from the Back of House - she’s

their trusted cook, and she always has the workers’ backs. If they have a question about

their leave, Mele will help them get the answer. If something makes them unhappy at work,

go and tell her everything. The staff here know what she is all about: “Speak up for your health and wellbeing, and don’t be scared to ask questions”. She is their delegate.

Born in Tonga, Mele came to Aotearoa at age 14 and has worked many food service jobs

ever since. She remembers earning about $7 an hour when she was just starting out. For just

starting out, and never having money before, she didn’t think she could complain. Now, with

kids and grandkids, she admits it’s harder and harder to feel like any money is enough for

food, rent, bills, a car, and so on.

“Get the workplace talking”

Mele has recently attended delegate training to help prepare KFC workers for 2025 collective

bargaining. Her words of encouragement to other delegates: “Get the workplace talking”, get involved in staff wellbeing, and really learn about what you can do.

To other workers, whether you’re a student, parent, or it’s your first job in the country:

“The best thing you can do for yourself is join your union, so we can all stand together and try to win. We need to fight for our own pay.”

Mele, we love the work you do. Your workplace is growing in healthier and confident union

members, and your union is lucky to have you.